As Bihar gears up for elections, the political narrative is significantly shaped by the issue of Bangladeshi infiltration, particularly in the Seemanchal region. The BJP is leveraging this sensitive topic to challenge the Congress and RJD, directing its focus on this specific area.
Seemanchal, bordering West Bengal, has a significant Muslim population, estimated at around 47%, notably higher than the state average. This demographic makes it a crucial area for the BJP, which is strategically emphasizing this in their campaign.
Why is Seemanchal Important to the BJP?
Seemanchal, with its high Muslim population, is seen as a critical constituency. The area comprises four districts – Purnia, Araria, Kishanganj, and Katihar – that hold 24 out of Bihar’s 243 assembly seats. Historically, the RJD-Congress alliance enjoys substantial support from Muslim and Yadav voters in this region.
The AIMIM’s success in the previous election, winning five seats, split the opposition votes, which indirectly benefited the BJP. This has led the BJP to focus on this area.
Infiltration as a Key Election Theme in Bihar
The Prime Minister recently criticized the Mahagathbandhan partners, accusing them of protecting foreign infiltrators. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has also weighed in, stating that the opposition’s ‘vote rights yatra’ is aimed at safeguarding the voting rights of infiltrators.
This is not the first time that the BJP has raised the issue of illegal infiltration before state elections. Similar narratives were used in Assam and West Bengal where the BJP accused the ruling parties of appeasing Bangladeshi immigrants.
Precedents in Other States: Delhi and Jharkhand
The BJP has previously campaigned against illegal immigration in Delhi and Jharkhand. In Delhi, the campaign targeted Rohingya and Bangladeshi migrants. In Jharkhand, the BJP accused the government of turning the state into a haven for infiltrators. These campaigns involved strong rhetoric from key BJP leaders.
Polarization of Muslim and Hindu Votes
The BJP’s strategy appears to be aimed at polarizing votes along religious lines. By emphasizing the threat posed by infiltrators to the tribal population, the BJP aims to consolidate Hindu votes while isolating the Muslim community.
With the Bihar elections expected in October-November 2025, the competition will be between the NDA, Mahagathbandhan, and Jan Suraaj Party. By highlighting the infiltration issue, the BJP seeks to gain a strategic advantage by polarizing voters.